After a car accident, the insurance adjuster's first settlement offer is almost always lower than what the claim is worth. That's not a sign of bad faith — it's the opening move in a negotiation, and the adjuster negotiates these every day while you do it maybe once a decade. Knowing how the process is built to anchor you low is most of the battle.
This is general guidance for straightforward property-damage and minor-injury claims. For serious injuries or disputed fault, talk to an attorney before settling anything.
Document before you discuss
Your leverage is evidence. Photos of the damage and the scene, the police report, repair estimates (ideally more than one), medical records and bills, and a record of any days of work you missed. The more concrete documentation you have, the harder it is for an adjuster to anchor to a low number.
Don't accept the first offer — and don't give a quick number
The first offer is a floor, not a ceiling. Equally, be careful when the adjuster asks what you'd accept early on; naming a low figure anchors you against yourself. Let your documented costs do the talking instead of a number pulled from the air.
Watch for the recorded statement and the quick-cash close
Adjusters may ask for a recorded statement or push a fast settlement "to get this resolved today." Both favor the insurer. You're generally not obligated to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer, and a settlement signed before you know the full extent of repairs or injuries can't be reopened. Slow down.
The script
Anchor to your documentation, calmly: "Thank you for the offer. Based on my repair estimates of $[amount], the medical bills of $[amount], and [days] of missed work, the offer doesn't reflect the actual costs. I'm looking for $[your number]. I'm happy to send the documentation supporting it." Then send it in writing.
When they counter, move in small increments and keep tying every number back to a documented cost. "I can come down to $[number] — that still covers the repair and the bills, but not much more."
Get the final agreement in writing
Before you sign a release, make sure the settlement covers everything — including any repairs or medical follow-up you can reasonably foresee — because signing typically closes the claim for good. Keep every email and estimate. A calm, documented negotiator consistently settles higher than one who takes the first call's offer to make it go away.